Thursday, November 5, 2026

RFBI tackles workforce challenges head-on with successful recruitment initiatives

In its efforts to overcome ongoing workforce challenges, Royal Freemasons’ Benevolent Institution (RFBI) has expanded its recruitment strategy both locally and internationally.

Published on 9 February 2024 (Last updated on 14 February 2024)

The latest group of Fijian nurses who have joined Royal Freemasons’ Benevolent Institution. [Source: Supplied]

This article was written by Frank Price, CEO Royal Freemasons’ Benevolent Institution (RFBI)

In its efforts to overcome ongoing workforce challenges, RFBI has expanded its recruitment strategy both locally and internationally. The organisation’s commitment is reflected not only in local recruitment initiatives but also in the successful implementation of overseas recruitment programs, resulting in the integration of Internationally Qualified Nurses (IQNs) into its workforce.

The addition of 112 internationally qualified nurses from various countries has enriched the diversity of skills and experiences within RFBI’s teams. This infusion of talent has notably elevated the quality of care provided to residents across its villages, with a further 70 IQNs expected to join by July.

Frank Price, CEO at RFBI, emphasised the pivotal role of a skilled and diverse workforce in delivering care to residents. He stated, “The inclusion of internationally qualified nurses has proven to be a valuable asset to our organisation, bringing a wide diversity of skills and experience from their respective countries but is also committed to fostering the professional development of IQNs.” 

Ishaka, an IQN from Sri Lanka, supports a resident at RFBI Benhome Masonic Village. [Source: Supplied]

Through its scholarship program, RFBI is actively providing support for these nurses to become Registered Nurses (RNs) in Australia, contributing to the elevation of healthcare standards.

RFBI not only prioritises recruiting international talent but is also committed to fostering the professional development of IQNs. Through its scholarship program, RFBI is actively providing support for these nurses to become Registered Nurses (RNs) in Australia, contributing to the elevation of healthcare standards.

Frank Price further expressed the organisation’s belief in investing in the growth and development of all staff. 

“By offering specific scholarships to our IQNs, we aim to empower them to achieve their full potential as Registered Nurses, contributing to the high standards of care that RFBI is known for.”

Ishaka, an IQN from Sri Lanka, shared her gratitude for RFBI’s support in her RN journey, highlighting the organisation’s genuine commitment to her professional growth.

RFBI acknowledges the role played by partners Key 2 Learning and Anania CQ Limited in the success of overseas recruitment programs. These partners have demonstrated unwavering commitment and dedication in sourcing highly qualified and skilled internationally qualified nurses, making a significant impact on RFBI’s workforce expansion.

With these strategic initiatives and partnerships, RFBI continues to lead the way in addressing workforce challenges, ensuring that elderly residents in their care receive the highest quality of service and attention.

OCT 27 – NOV 2, 2026

• aged care leadership

Who is accountable for older Australians stranded in hospital?

Hayley Campbell, Content Writer Whiddon CEO Chris Mamarelis warns that older Australians waiting months or years in hospital for aged care are falling between state and federal systems, raising questions about their rights, accountability and the role of aged care boards.

• innovation

Foreign exchange: What aged care can borrow from overseas regarding profit

Jakob Neeland, Contributor In Japan, most home care providers are for-profit, and nobody much minds. Dr Darren Coppin explains what Australian aged care can learn from Japan, Singapore, Denmark and the Netherlands, and why the secret is keeping the margin well away from a family’s moment of need.

• aged care workforce

Closing the gap between aged care technology and workforce capability

Yvette Willison, Content Writer Aged care providers have access to growing digital technology, but workforce skills are not keeping pace. Holmesglen’s environmental scan highlights where leaders can focus education investment to help staff interpret information, coordinate responses and use existing technology confidently and effectively.

Get the good stuff, weekly.

Trends, tactics, no fluff every Wednesday.